On Friday, the Los Angeles Dodgers made the decision to designate Trevor Bauer for assignment, essentially ending his time with the franchise.
Immediately after the Dodgers announced their decision, Bauer released a statement that wished his former teammates well but alleged members of the front office expressed a desire to welcome him back during a meeting in Arizona. It was the first time the two sides spoke since Bauer was put on leave in 2021.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Dodgers came away with an impression Bauer did not share any regret over the sexual assault allegations and subsequent suspension:
Dodger officials declined to go into details of their conversation, but privately revealed that they didn’t hear any remorse, apologies or anything in the slightest from Bauer to change their mind.
Furthermore, the notion that Bauer was informed by some with the Dodgers that they wished to have him back on the roster was refuted:
Two Dodgers officials vehemently denied to USA TODAY Sports that they conveyed those sentiments to Bauer.
The cloud of $22.5 million owed to the right-hander wasn’t enough to overlook allegations against Bauer and what the independent arbitrator upheld in his ruling.
Following his initial placement on administrative leave, many players in the Dodgers clubhouse were reported to be against wanting Bauer back with the team. But recently, that seemed to change and some players reportedly informed the front office of their desire to add Bauer back onto the roster.
No Dodgers players commented publicly on the matter. The front office decided it was in their best interest to part ways.
The Dodgers originally signed Bauer to a three-year, $102 million contract in February 2021. He would go on to make just 17 starts with the Dodgers before being placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred.
Even with the reduction to 194 games, Bauer received the longest suspension handed down by the league for violating their joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy.
Where do the Dodgers and Trevor Bauer go from here?
The Dodgers have until Thursday to potentially trade Bauer, or place him on unconditional release waivers. If he goes unclaimed by January 13, Bauer will become a free agent and available to sign with any team.
If Bauer does sign with a new club, he would receive the league minimum ($720,000), which would be deducted from the $22.5 million salary the Dodgers are on the hook to pay for the 2023 season.
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